AQW 44549/22-27

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 22/04/2026
Answered On Date: 08/05/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any access to employment support available for deafblind people who wish to apply for jobs and participate in job interviews; and (ii) any organisations in receipt of funding from his Department to deliver this specific support.

Answer:

My officials in the Job and Benefits Offices provide personalised employment support to all customers, including individuals who are deafblind. This includes tailored work coach support, adjustments to communication methods to meet individual needs; and assistance with job search, applications and interview preparation. Where required, additional support is arranged, including working with partner organisations to ensure appropriate specialist provision is in place.

Access to Work (NI) provides support for people with disabilities, including deafblind people in employment, and support to attend a job interview.

The Department does not fund any organisations for the specific purpose of delivering support to deafblind people who wish to apply for jobs and participate in job interviews.